Jesus didn’t begin his ministry quietly. Matthew tells us that he traveled throughout Galilee, teaching in synagogues and public spaces, moving from town to town and announcing the Good News of the kingdom of God to all who would listen, even in the Gentile regions. He healed every kind of disease and illness, and it’s no surprise that word spread quickly. People came from everywhere, bringing the sick, the hurting, the curious, and those who felt broken or desperate.
As we read this passage of Scripture, it can be easy to say, “Well, of course they followed Jesus.” But when we slow down and really pay attention to the text, we see something remarkable. Crowds of this size and diversity were not drawn by curiosity alone. People followed Jesus because of what he was doing, and even more because of how he was doing it.
Acts of healing were not unheard of in the ancient world, but Jesus healed with authority, compassion, and completeness. He was not afraid of disease, brokenness, or crossing social boundaries. His healings were not random acts of kindness; they were signs pointing to the arrival of the kingdom of God, evidence that God’s almighty power and presence were being unleashed upon the world through him.
Church, I invite you to pause and reflect on why you follow Jesus. What is it about him that draws you in? When you speak his name, Jesus, what comes to mind?
The crowds followed Jesus not because he fit their expectations, but because he brought a transformative power, this life-changing Good News for all people. He broke down barriers and reminded the people that there was a seat at the table for everyone. Jesus showed up and met people right where they were. And he is still doing this today. Jesus meets us right where we are, in the highest of highs and in the lowest of lows, and reminds us that we are loved and he is with us always.
As we continue to walk in faith and better understand who Jesus is and who he has called us to be this week and beyond, I wonder: How are we revealing the everlasting love of Jesus Christ to the world around us? When people encounter us, do they see Jesus? The Jesus who invited us to “come, and follow me” (4:19).
Reflection:
- How would you explain who Jesus is to you personally and why you’ve chosen to follow him?
- Take some time to sit with God and ask how Jesus has met you right where you are—in your joy, pain, confusion, or need.
- Think about your life in the past couple of days or weeks—where have you sensed God’s presence?
- In what ways are you revealing the love of Jesus to those around you—family, friends, coworkers, or people you have never met?